Consumables

ABSTRACT

Disclosed are sweetened consumables and methods of forming said sweetened consumables that comprise certain sweeteners and a compound of formula (1), 
                         
wherein R 1  is selected from the group consisting of OH and OCH 3 , and R 2  is selected from the group consisting of H and OH, R 1  and R 2  comprise at least one OH group, and when R 1  is OH then R 2  is H (trilobatin), and when R 1  is OCH 3  then R 2  is OH (HDG), in a concentration near its sweetness detection threshold. The sweeteners include sucrose, fructose, glucose, high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, xylose, arabinose, rhamnose, erythritol, xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol, inositol, acesulfame potassium, aspartame, neotame, sucralose, saccharine, or combinations thereof.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation application of U.S. Ser. No. 15/958,612 filed onApr. 20, 2018, which is a continuation application of U.S. Ser. No.14/799,003 filed on Jul. 14, 2015, now abandoned, which is acontinuation application of U.S. Ser. No. 14/269,803, filed on May 5,2014, now abandoned, which is a continuation application of U.S. Ser.No. 12/663,321, filed on Mar. 6, 2010, now abandoned, which is anational stage application filed under 35 USC 371 of InternationalApplication No. PCT/CH2008/000253, filed on Jun. 6, 2008, whichapplications claim priority to U.S. Provisional Application For PatentSer. No. 61/055,584, filed May 23, 2008, and to U.S. ProvisionalApplication For Patent Ser. No. 60/942,736, filed Jun. 8, 2007. Theapplicant herein incorporates by reference the entirety of each of theforegoing documents herein, and claims all available priority benefit toeach of the above applications.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Disclosed are sweetened consumables and methods of forming saidsweetened consumables that comprise certain sweeteners and a compound offormula (1) (including trilobatin and HDG) in a concentration near itssweetness detection threshold to enhance the sweetness.

BACKGROUND

Trilobatin is a natural dihydrochalcone type sweetener that occurs inthe Chinese sweet tea plant Lithocarpus polystachyus, the leaves ofwhich have been consumed as sweet tea in the south of China forcenturies. It has also been found in the apple species Malus trilobata,and from this source the name trilobatin was derived. Trilobatin wasfirst chemically synthesized in 1942 under the name p-phlorizin. Underthe name prunin dihydrochalcone, U.S. Pat. No. 3,087,821 described itsuse as a sweetener in 1963.

Trilobatin has been used as a sweetener in concentrations well above itssweetness detection level.

Hesperetin dihydrochalcone 4″-beta-D-glucoside (HDG) is a knownsweetener that can be synthesized from hesperidin, which is present inpeels/fruit of Citrus sinensis L. (Rutaceae), commonly known as sweetorange and C. reticulata, commonly known as tangerine or mandarin. Thesynthesis of HDG may be performed by reduction of hesperidin in dilutealkali which yields hesperidin dihydrochalcone, followed by partialhydrolysis, either by acid or by a dissolved or immobilized enzyme, toform HDG, for example as described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,429,873.

Again HDG is used in concentrations well above its sweetness detectionlevel.

Applicant surprisingly found that compounds of formula (1) (trilobatinand HDG) are sweetness enhancers and can be used in a low concentrationnear their sweetness detection threshold in combination with certainsweeteners, including the sugars sucrose, fructose, glucose, highfructose corn syrup (containing fructose and glucose), xylose,arabinose, and rhamnose, the sugar alcohols erythritol, xylitol,mannitol, sorbitol, and inositol, and the artificial sweeteners AceK,aspartame, neotame, sucralose, and saccharine, to enhance the sweetnessof said sweeteners.

SUMMARY

Provided are the following:

(1) A sweetened consumable comprising

-   -   a) at least 0.0001% (w/w) of at least one sweetener, including        natural and artificial sweeteners,    -   wherein said sweetener includes sucrose, fructose, glucose, high        fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, xylose, arabinose, rhamnose,        erythritol, xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol, inositol, acesulfame        potassium, aspartame, neotame, sucralose, saccharine, or        combinations thereof,    -   wherein said at least one sweetener or sweetener combination is        present in a concentration above the sweetness detection        threshold in a concentration at least isosweet to 2% sucrose,        and    -   b) a compound of formula (1),

-   -   wherein R¹ is selected from the group consisting of OH and OCH₃,        and R² is selected from the group consisting of H and OH, R¹ and        R² comprise at least one OH group, and when R¹ is OH then R² is        H (trilobatin), and when R¹ is OCH₃ then R² is OH (HDG),

wherein the compound of formula (1) is present in a concentration nearits sweetness detection threshold, and

wherein the trilobatin concentration in consumables is from 3 to 200ppm, and in consumables that are dairy products, dairy-derived productsand dairy-alternative products is from 10 ppm to 750 ppm, and

wherein the HDG concentration in consumables is from 0.3 to 20 ppm, andin consumables that are dairy products, dairy-derived products anddairy-alternative products, is from 1 ppm to 75 ppm.

Trilobatin or HDG are used in a concentration near their respectivesweetness thresholds which may vary in different consumables asdescribed herein.

Alternatively, trilobatin may be present in a concentration from 3 to150 or from 3 to 100 ppm in the consumable, or from 10 ppm to 750 ppm,10 ppm to 700 ppm, 10 ppm to 650 ppm, 10 ppm to 600 ppm, 10 ppm to 550ppm, or 10 to 500 ppm when used in consumables that are dairy products,dairy-derived products or dairy-alternative products.

Alternatively, in a consumable which has a pH below 6.5, the trilobatinconcentration may be from 6 to 300 ppm; in a consumable which has a pHbelow 5 or below 4, the trilobatin concentration may be from 6 to 400ppm.

Alternatively, HDG may be present in a concentration from 0.3 to 15 orfrom 0.3 to 10 ppm in the consumable, or from 1 ppm to 75 ppm, 1 ppm to70 ppm, 1 ppm to 65 ppm, 1 ppm to 60 ppm, 1 ppm to 55 ppm, or 1 to 50ppm when used in consumables that are dairy products, dairy-derivedproducts or dairy-alternative products.

Alternatively, in a consumable which has a pH below 6.5, the HDGconcentration may be from 0.6 to 30 ppm; in a consumable which has a pHbelow 5, or below 4, the HDG concentration may be from 0.6 to 40 ppm.

(2) The sweetened consumable of item 1 wherein the compound of formula(1) is trilobatin.

(3) The sweetened consumable of item 1 wherein the compound of formula(1) is hesperitin dihydrochalcone 4″-beta-D-glucoside (HDG).

(4) A sweetened consumable as herein described including in items(1)-(3) that is a water-based consumable including but not limited tobeverage, water, aqueous beverage, enhanced/slightly sweetened waterdrink, mineral water, carbonated beverage, non-carbonated beverage,carbonated water, still water, soft drink, non-alcoholic drink,alcoholic drink, beer, wine, liquor, fruit drink, juice, fruit juice,vegetable juice, broth drink, coffee, tea, black tea, green tea, oolongtea, herbal tea, cocoa (water-based), tea-based drink, coffee-baseddrinks, cocoa-based drink, syrup, frozen fruit, frozen fruit juice,water-based ice, fruit ice, sorbet, dressing, salad dressing, sauce,soup, and beverage botanical materials (whole or ground), or instantpowder for reconstitution (coffee beans, ground coffee, instant coffee,cocoa beans, cocoa powder, instant cocoa, tea leaves, instant teapowder).

(5) A sweetened consumable as herein described including in items (1) to(3) that is a solid dry consumable including but not limited to cereals,baked food products, biscuits, bread, breakfast cereal, cereal bar,energy bars/nutritional bars, granola, cakes, cookies, crackers, donuts,muffins, pastries, confectioneries, chewing gum, chocolate, fondant,hard candy, marshmallow, pressed tablets, snack foods, botanicalmaterials (whole or ground), and instant powders for reconstitution.

(6) A sweetened consumable as herein described including in items (1) to(3) which is a dairy product, dairy-derived product or dairy-alternativeproduct as herein described, including but not limited to milk, fluidmilk, cultured milk product, cultured and noncultured dairy-based drink,cultured milk product cultured with lactobacillus, yoghurt,yoghurt-based beverage, smoothy, lassi, milk shake, acidified milk,acidified milk beverage, butter milk, kefir, milk-based beverages,milk/juice blend, fermented milk beverage, icecream, dessert, sourcream, dip, salad dressing, cottage cheese, frozen yoghurt, soy milk,rice milk, soy drink, and rice milk drink.

(7) A sweetened consumable as herein described including any one ofitems (1) to (6) comprising at least one further sweetness enhancerselected from the group consisting of naringin dihydrochalcone,mogroside V, swingle extract, rubusoside, rubus extract, stevioside,rebaudioside A, and NHDC, or combinations thereof, wherein each furthersweetness enhancer is present in a concentration near its sweetnessdetection threshold, which is for naringin dihydrochalcone from 2 to 60ppm, for rubusoside from 1.4 ppm to 56 ppm, for rubus extract from 2 ppmto 80 ppm, for mogroside V from 0.4 ppm to 12.5 ppm, for swingle extractfrom 2 to 60 ppm, for stevioside from 2 to 60 ppm, for rebaudioside Afrom 1 to 30 ppm, and for NHDC from 1 to 5 ppm.

(8) A sweetened consumable as herein described, including in item (7),comprising 2 to 60 ppm naringin dihydrochalcone.

(9) A sweetened consumable as herein described, including in item (7),comprising 1.4 ppm to 56 ppm rubusoside or 2 ppm to 80 ppm rubusextract.

(10) A sweetened consumable as herein described, including in item (7),comprising 0.4 ppm to 12.5 ppm mogroside V or 2 to 60 ppm swingleextract.

(11) A sweetened consumable as herein described, including in item (7),comprising 1 to 30 ppm rebaudioside A.

(12) A sweetened consumable as herein described, including in item (7),comprising 2 to 60 ppm stevioside.

(13) A sweetened consumable as herein described, including in item (7),comprising 1 to 5 ppm neohesperidin dihydrochalcone.

(14) A sweetened consumable as herein described, including in item (7),comprising two of the further sweetness enhancers selected from thegroup consisting of naringin dihydrochalcone, mogroside V, swingleextract, rubusoside, rubus extract, stevioside, rebaudioside A, andneohesperidin dihydrochalcone.

(15) A sweetened consumable as herein described, including in item (14),wherein one of the further sweetness enhancers is selected from thegroup consisting of mogroside V, swingle extract, rubusoside, rubusextract, stevioside, rebaudioside A, and the other further sweetnessenhancer is selected from the group consisting of neohesperidindihydrochalcone and naringin dihydrochalcone.

(16) A sweetened consumable as herein described, which is a beverage.

(17) A beverage as herein described, including in item (16),additionally comprising neohesperidin dihydrochalcone in a concentrationfrom 1 to 2 ppm.

(18) A method of sweetening consumables wherein:

-   a) at least 0.0001% of at least one sweetener, including natural and    artificial sweeteners,    -   wherein said sweetener includes sucrose, fructose, glucose, high        fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, xylose, arabinose, rhamnose,        erythritol, xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol, inositol, acesulfame        potassium, aspartame, neotame, sucralose, saccharine, or        combinations thereof,    -   wherein said at least one sweetener or sweetener combination is        present in a concentration above the sweetness detection        threshold in a concentration at least isosweet to 2% sucrose,        and-   b) a compound of formula (I)

-   -   wherein R¹ is selected from the group consisting of OH and OCH₃,        and R² is selected from the group consisting of H and OH, R¹ and        R² comprise at least one OH group, and when R¹ is OH then R² is        H (trilobatin), and when R¹ is OCH₃ then R² is OH (HDG),    -   wherein the compound of formula (1) is present in a        concentration near its sweetness detection threshold, and    -   wherein for trilobatin said concentration in consumables is from        3 to 200 ppm, and in consumables that are dairy products,        dairy-derived products and dairy-alternative products is from 10        ppm to 750 ppm, and    -   wherein for HDG said concentration in consumables is from 0.3 to        20 ppm, and in consumables that are dairy products,        dairy-derived products and dairy-alternative products is from 1        ppm to 75 ppm,

are admixed to a consumable.

Alternatively, trilobatin may be present in a concentration from 3 to150 or from 3 to 100 ppm in the consumable, or from 10 ppm to 750 ppm,10 ppm to 700 ppm, 10 ppm to 650 ppm, 10 ppm to 600 ppm, 10 ppm to 550ppm, or 10 to 500 ppm when used in consumables that are dairy products,dairy-derived products or dairy-alternative products.

Alternatively, in a consumable which has a pH below 6.5, trilobatin maybe present in a concentration from 6 to 300 ppm; in a consumable whichhas a pH below 5, or below 4, trilobatin may be present in aconcentration from 6 to 400 ppm.

Alternatively, HDG may be present in a concentration from 0.3 to 15 orfrom 0.3 to 10 ppm in the consumable, or from 1 ppm to 75 ppm, 1 ppm to70 ppm, 1 ppm to 65 ppm, 1 ppm to 60 ppm, 1 ppm to 55 ppm, or 1 to 50ppm when used in consumables that are dairy products, dairy-derivedproducts or dairy-alternative products.

Alternatively, in a consumable which has a pH below 6.5, the HDG may bepresent in a concentration from 0.6 to 30 ppm; in a consumable which hasa pH below 5, or below 4, the HDG may be present in a concentration from0.6 to 40 ppm.

(19) A method as herein described, including in item (18), furthercomprising the admixture of at least one enhancer selected from thegroup consisting of naringin dihydrochalcone, mogroside V, swingleextract, rubusoside, rubus extract, stevioside, rebaudioside A, andNHDC,

wherein each enhancer is present in a concentration near its sweetnessdetection threshold, which is for naringin dihydrochalcone from 2 to 60ppm, for rubusoside from 1.4 ppm to 56 ppm, for rubus extract from 2 ppmto 80 ppm, for mogroside V from 0.4 ppm to 12.5 ppm, for swingle extractfrom 2 to 60 ppm, for stevioside from 2 to 60 ppm, for rebaudioside Afrom 1 to 30 ppm, and for NHDC from 1 to 5 ppm.

Consumables and methods herein described, including in any one of items(1) to (19), may contain a compound of formula (1) from any source, itmay be chemically synthesized or extracted from any source including abotanical source.

For trilobatin, said botanical source includes but is not limited toparts or leaves of Lithocarpus polystachyus (Chinese sweet tea) andparts or leaves of an apple species, said apple species including Malustrilobata.

HDG may be synthesized or derived from reaction of its precursorhesperidin, which may be synthesized or extracted from any sourceincluding a botanical source. Said botanical source includes the peelsand fruit of Citrus sinensis L. (Rutaceae), commonly known as sweetorange, and C. reticulata, commonly known as tangerine or mandarin.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Trilobatin or1-[4-(beta-D-glucopyranosyloxy)-2,6-dihydroxyphenyl]-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-propanoneis also known as p-Phlorizin, Phloretin 4′-glucoside,Phloretine-4′-glucoside, Prunin dihydrochalcone, or p-Phloridzin. Itschemical structure is given below.

HDG or hesperitin dihydrochalcone 4″-beta-D-glucoside is also known as1-[4-(−D-glucopyranosyloxy)-2,6-dihydroxyphenyl]-3-(3-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-1-propanone.The chemical structure of HDG is given below.

The sweetness detection threshold for trilobatin, HDG and optionalenhancers were determined by the applicant.

The sweetness detection threshold varies somewhat in differentindividuals. For example, some individuals are able to detect thesweetness of sucrose in a very low concentration of 0.4%, others need atleast 0.7%, or at least 1% or even more. All examples were performedwith sweet sensitive panelists able to detect at least 0.5% of sucroseor less. The concentration detectable by the average consumer willtherefore be higher.

A concentration near a sweetness enhancer's sweetness detectionthreshold is defined herein as a concentration with an isointensity tosucrose of up to 1% sucrose or lower, for example, up to 0.8%, up to0.75%, up to 0.7%, or up to 0.5% sucrose, as detected by sweet sensitivepanelists.

An example of a useful concentration of trilobatin near its sweetnessdetection threshold is 3 to 200 ppm, or 3 to 150 ppm, or 3 to 100 ppm inconsumables.

Further examples, without limitation, are trilobatin concentrations from10 ppm to 750 ppm in consumables that are dairy products, dairy-derivedproducts or dairy-alternative products, or concentrations from 6 to 300ppm in consumables with a pH below 6.5, or concentrations from 6 to 400ppm in consumables with a pH below 5, or below 4.

An example of a useful concentration of HDG near its sweetness detectionthreshold is 0.3 to 20 ppm, or 0.3 to 15 ppm, or 0.3 to 10 ppm inconsumables.

Further examples, without limitation, are HDG concentrations from 1 ppmto 75 ppm in consumables that are dairy products, dairy-derived productsor dairy-alternative products, or concentrations from 0.6 to 30 ppm inconsumables with a pH below 6.5, or concentrations from 0.6 to 40 ppm inconsumables with a pH below 5, or below 4.

A compound of formula (1) (trilobatin, HDG, or a mixture thereof) can beused in various consumables including but not limited to water-basedconsumables, solid dry consumables and dairy products, dairy-derivedproducts and dairy-alternative products.

Water-based consumables include but are not limited to beverage, water,aqueous drink, enhanced/slightly sweetened water drink, mineral water,carbonated beverage, non-carbonated beverage, carbonated water, stillwater, soft drink, non-alcoholic drink, alcoholic drink, beer, wine,liquor, fruit drink, juice, fruit juice, vegetable juice, broth drink,coffee, tea, black tea, green tea, oolong tea, herbal tea, cocoa(water-based), tea-based drink, coffee-based drink, cocoa-based drink,syrup, frozen fruit, frozen fruit juice, water-based ice, fruit ice,sorbet, dressing, salad dressing, sauce, soup, and beverage botanicalmaterials (whole or ground), or instant powder for reconstitution(coffee beans, ground coffee, instant coffee, cocoa beans, cocoa powder,instant cocoa, tea leaves, instant tea powder).

Solid dry consumables include but are not limited to cereals, baked foodproducts, biscuits, bread, breakfast cereal, cereal bar, energybars/nutritional bars, granola, cakes, cookies, crackers, donuts,muffins, pastries, confectioneries, chewing gum, chocolate, fondant,hard candy, marshmallow, pressed tablets, snack foods, and botanicalmaterials (whole or ground), and instant powders for reconstitution asmentioned above.

In certain products the sweetness detection threshold will be higher,for example in dairy products, dairy-derived products anddairy-alternative products. Dairy-derived food products contain milk ormilk protein. Dairy-alternative products contain (instead of dairyprotein derived from the milk of mammals) protein from botanical sources(soy, rice, etc.).

Dairy products, dairy-derived products and dairy-alternative productsinclude but are not limited to milk, fluid milk, cultured milk product,cultured and noncultured dairy-based drinks, cultured milk productcultured with lactobacillus, yoghurt, yoghurt-based beverage, smoothy,lassi, milk shake, acidified milk, acidified milk beverage, butter milk,kefir, milk-based beverage, milk/juice blend, fermented milk beverage,icecream, dessert, sour cream, dip, salad dressings, cottage cheese,frozen yoghurt, soy milk, rice milk, soy drink, rice milk drink.

Milk includes, but is not limited to, whole milk, skim milk, condensedmilk, evaporated milk, reduced fat milk, low fat milk, nonfat milk, andmilk solids (which may be fat or nonfat).

For dairy products, dairy-derived products and dairy-alternativeproducts, a useful concentration near the sweetness detection thresholdof trilobatin will be from about 10 to 500 ppm or higher, and may be upto 550 ppm, 600 ppm, 650 ppm, 700 ppm, or 750 ppm; a usefulconcentration near the sweetness detection threshold of HDG will be fromabout 1 to 50 ppm or higher, and may be up to 55 ppm, 60 ppm, 65 ppm, 70ppm, or 75 ppm.

The isointensity of various trilobatin concentrations was determined inwater, and 100 ppm trilobatin was isosweet to 0.5% sucrose and 200 ppmwas isosweet to 1.0% sucrose.

Similarly, the isointensity of various HDG concentrations was determinedin water, and 10 ppm HDG was isosweet to 0.5% sucrose, 15 ppm HDG wasisosweet to about 0.75% sucrose and 20 ppm was isosweet to 1.0% sucrose.

A compound of formula (1) (trilobatin, HDG, or a mixture thereof) may becombined with optional enhancers in a low concentration near theirsweetness detection threshold for an improved sweetness enhancingeffect. These optional enhancers and some of their synonyms and plantsources are discussed in more detail below.

The one or more optional enhancers include, without limitation, naringindihydrochalcone, rubus extract, rubusoside, swingle extract, mogrosideV, rebaudioside A, stevioside, and neohesperidin dihydrochalcone (NHDC).

Useful concentrations for these optional enhancers are indicated below.

-   -   2 to 60 ppm naringin dihydrochalcone    -   1.4 to 42 rubusoside or 2 to 60 ppm rubus extract.    -   0.4 to 12.5 ppm mogroside V or 2 ppm to 60 ppm swingle extract.    -   1 to 30 ppm rebaudioside A.    -   2 to 100 ppm, for example, 2 to 60 ppm or 2 to 100 ppm,        stevioside.    -   1 to 5 ppm NHDC.

Further useful concentrations for rubus extract may be, for example,from 2 ppm to up to 80 ppm. Further useful concentrations for rubusosidemay be from 2 ppm to up to 56 ppm.

The determined isointensities to sucrose solutions of the optionalenhancers are indicated below.

-   -   45 ppm naringin dihydrochalcone is isosweet to 0.5% sucrose.    -   60 ppm naringin dihydrochalcone is isosweet to 1.25% sucrose.    -   60 ppm rubus extract with 42 ppm rubusoside is below the        intensity of 1% sucrose.    -   60 ppm swingle extract with 12.48 ppm mogroside V is isosweet to        0.75% sucrose.    -   20 ppm rebaudioside A is isosweet to 0.75% sucrose.    -   30 ppm stevioside is isosweet to 0.5% sucrose.    -   40 ppm stevioside is isosweet to 0.75% sucrose.    -   2 ppm NHDC is isosweet to 0.5% sucrose.

Naringin dihydrochalcone (NarDHC) is also known as1-[4-[[2-O-(6-Deoxy-alpha-L-mannopyranosyl)-beta-D-glucopyranosyl]oxy]-2,6-dihydroxyphenyl]-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-1-propanone.

Rubus extract is the extract of the plant Rubus suavissimus and containsrubusoside. Rubusoside may be purified from the extract and used inpurified form or the extract may be used. Alternatively to Rubussuavissimus extract, another botanical extract containing a sufficientamount of rubusoside may be used.

Swingle extract is also known as swingle, Lo Han, or Lo Han Guo. Swingleextract contains mogrosides and can be extracted from the plant Siraitiagrosvenorii. Siraitia grosvenorii (syn. Momordica grosvenorii,Thiadiantha grosvenorii); also called arhat fruit or longevity fruit; orin simplified Chinese luó hàn gu{hacek over (o)} or luo han kuo. Theplant contains mogrosides, a group of triterpene glycosides that make upapproximately 1% of the flesh of the fresh fruit. Through extraction anextract in form of a powder containing 80% mogrosides can be obtained.Mogroside extract contains mogroside V (major active), mogroside IIa,mogroside IIb, mogroside III, mogroside IV, 11-oxo mogroside V, andsiamenoside I.

Alternatively to swingle extract, another botanical extract containing asufficient amount of mogroside V may be used.

Rebaudioside A is a terpenoid glycoside that is found in extract ofStevia rebaudiana.

Stevioside is a terpenoid glycoside also known as stevia, and is foundin extracts of the plant Stevia rebaudiana.

Neohesperidin dihydrochalcone (NHDC, E959) is known to actsynergistically with sucrose and/or stevioside, though its effectivenessat its sweetness detection threshold for sucrose is disputed. Forexample, Kroeze et al., Chem. Senses 2000, 25, 555-559 disclose thatNHDC does not enhance sucrose sweetness at its sweetness detectionthreshold.

The sweeteners include, but are not limited to, the sugars sucrose,fructose, glucose, high fructose corn syrup (containing fructose andglucose), xylose, arabinose, and rhamnose, the sugar alcoholserythritol, xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol, and inositol, and theartificial sweeteners AceK, aspartame, neotame, sucralose, andsaccharine, and combinations of these sweeteners.

Sucrose, also known as table sugar or saccharose, is a disaccharide ofglucose and fructose. Its systematic name isalpha-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→2)-beta-D-fructofuranose.

Fructose and glucose are monosaccharide sugars.

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) consists of a mixture of glucose andfructose. Like ordinary corn syrup, the high fructose variety is madefrom corn starch using enzymes. The fructose content of corn syrup(glucose) is increased through enzymatic processing. Common commercialgrades of high fructose corn syrup include fructose contents of 42%,55%, or 90%. The 55% grade is most commonly used in soft drinks.

Erythritol (systematic name 1,2,3,4-butanetetrol) is a naturalnon-caloric sugar alcohol.

AceK, aspartame, neotame and sucralose are artificial sweeteners.

Acesulfam potassium (AceK) is the potassium salt of6-methyl-1,2,3-oxathiazine-4(3H)-one 2,2-dioxide, an N-sulfonylamide. Itis also known as Acesulfam K or AceK, or under various trademark namesincluding Sunett® and Sweet One®. In the European Union it is also knownunder the E number (additive code) E950.

Aspartame is the name for aspartyl-phenylalanine-1-methyl ester, adipeptide. It is known under various trademark names including Equal®,and Canderel®. In the European Union, it is also known under the Enumber (additive code) E951.

Sucralose is the name for 1,6-dichloro-1,6-dideoxy-β-D-fructo-furanosyl4-chloro-4-deoxy-α-D-galactopyranoside, which is a chlorodeoxysugar. Itis also known by the trade name Splenda®. In the European Union, it isalso known under the E number (additive code) E955.

The natural sweeteners may be used in pure or partly purified form, andmay be chemically synthesized, produced by biotechnological processesincluding fermentation, or isolated from a natural source, in particulara botanical source (including, without limitation, fruits, sugar cane,sugar beet), for example a plant extract or syrup including, withoutlimitation, corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, honey, molasses, maplesyrup, fruit concentrates, and other syrups and extracts.

Sweeteners, compounds of formula (1) (trilobatin, HDG, and mixturesthereof) and the optional enhancers can be used in purified or isolatedform or in the form of a botanical extract comprising the sweetnessenhancing actives. For example, trilobatin can be chemically synthesizedor from a botanical source including but not limited to Lithocarpuspolystachus and Malus spp; and HDG can be synthesized or isolated from anatural source, or used in semi-natural form synthesized from hesperidinextracted from a botanical source as is well known in the art anddescribed herein-above.

Compounds of formula (1) (trilobatin, HDG, and mixtures thereof) can beused alone or in combination with one or more optional enhancers asdescribed herein, in a concentration as indicated below in a compositioncontaining 0.0001 to 15% (wt/wt) or more of at least one sweetener. Auseful concentration for a sweetener is a concentration that on its ownprovides an isointensity to a sucrose solution of at least 2%, forexample 2% to 15%, or 5% to 12%.

For example, a useful concentration of sucrose, fructose, glucose, highfructose corn syrup (HFCS) or erythritol may be from about 5% to about12%.

Compounds of formula (1) (trilobatin, HDG, and mixtures thereof) and theoptional enhancers can be added to consumables to enhance the sweetnessof sweeteners herein described present in said consumables or added tosuch consumables.

Consumables include all food products, including but not limited to,cereal products, rice products, tapioca products, sago products, baker'sproducts, biscuit products, pastry products, bread products,confectionery products, desert products, gums, chewing gums, chocolates,ices, honey products, treacle products, yeast products, baking-powder,salt and spice products, savory products, mustard products, vinegarproducts, sauces (condiments), tobacco products, cigars, cigarettes,processed foods, cooked fruits and vegetable products, meat and meatproducts, jellies, jams, fruit sauces, egg products, milk and dairyproducts, yoghurts, cheese products, butter and butter substituteproducts, milk substitute products, soy products, edible oils and fatproducts, medicaments, beverages, carbonated beverages, alcoholicdrinks, beers, soft drinks, mineral and aerated waters and othernon-alcoholic drinks, fruit drinks, fruit juices, coffee, artificialcoffee, tea, cocoa, including forms requiring reconstitution, foodextracts, plant extracts, meat extracts, condiments, sweeteners,nutraceuticals, gelatins, pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical gums,tablets, lozenges, drops, emulsions, elixirs, syrups and otherpreparations for making beverages, and combinations thereof.

Consumables may contain acids to provide a low pH. For example, manybeverages have a low pH, for example, from pH 2.6 to 3. Trilobatin andtrilobatin compositions comprising optional enhancers described hereinalso work under low pH conditions and show an enhancement effect.

However, a lower pH will decrease sweet sensitivity as is well known inthe art, accordingly the sweetness threshold for both sweetener andsweetness enhancer will be higher.

The sweetness threshold for consumables of low pH, for example, pH 6.5or lower, will be higher accordingly and more sweetener and/or sweetnessenhancer will be used to reach a similar sweetening/enhancement effect.A useful concentration range for trilobatin in consumables of pH 6.5 orlower may be from 6 to 300 ppm; for HDG it may be from 0.6 to 30 ppm. Inconsumables below pH 5, or below pH 4, for example pH 2.6 to pH 3,including, without limitation, beverages, the concentration range may beeven higher, for example up to 400 ppm for trilobatin and up to 40 ppmfor HDG, respectively.

How to sweeten consumables using sweeteners herein-described in asufficient amount is well-known in the art. Depending on the consumable,the amount of sweetener can be reduced by addition of trilobatin andoptional enhancers described herein. For example, for sucrose assweetener, a reduction of about 1 to 4° Brix or more can be achieved.

Consumbles may contain any amount of a sweetener as herein-described, auseful range is, for example, at least 2%, for example about 2% to 15%,or about 5% to 12% of one or more selected from sucrose, fructose,glucose, high fructose corn syrup, or erythritol.

A useful range for artificial sweeteners is in a concentration isosweetto about 2 to 15% sucrose.

Different sweeteners may be used in combination in a concentrationequivalent to at least 2% isointensity to sucrose.

For example, carbonated beverages usually contain about 10% to 12% highfructose corn syrup and/or sucrose.

An additional effect of the trilobatin and HDG enhanced sweetness inconsumables that are fruits or that contain fruits or part of fruits orfruit flavors is a higher fruit flavor impact. In particular, berrynotes, green notes, and cinnamon notes are enhanced and have a higherflavor impact.

Such enhanced fruits or fruit flavors may comprise citrus fruitsincluding lemon, lime, orange, clementine, tangerine, tangelo, kumquat,satsuma, minneola, grapefruit, pummelo, sweety, ugli, carambola,apricot, banana, grape, watermelon, cantaloupe, passion fruit, papaya,persimmon, pomegranate, guave, lychee, apple, pear, peach, pineapple,kiwi, mango, nectarine, plum, fig, and berries.

The fruit flavor enhancement is particularly noticeable in berry fruitor flavors, for example, without limitation, strawberry, raspberry,bramble fruits including blackberry, bayberry, gooseberry, andblueberry.

EXAMPLES

All concentrations in % are % (wt/wt), unless otherwise indicated. Allexamples were performed with sweet sensitive panelists able to detect atleast 0.5% of sucrose or less, unless stated otherwise. Theconcentration detectable by the average consumer will be higher.

Example 1

Determination of the Sweetness Detection Threshold of Trilobatin and HDG

The sweetness detection threshold was determined as detailed in 1a, 1band 1c for trilobatin, and in 1d for HDG.

1a. Paired Comparison of 20-100 ppm Trilobatin Versus 0-1% Sucrose

Trilobatin (20 ppm, 60 ppm, 100 ppm) in water samples were evaluated forisointensity to sucrose solutions in a concentration of 0, 0.5 and 1%sucrose using a paired comparison method. Samples were paired and tastedleft to right with rinsing (water) in between, by one panelist trainedfor sweetness detection. Once completing the sequence, the panelistranked the pair of samples for sweetness then evaluated samples withrespect to one another with the following descriptors (in ascendingorder): “significantly less sweet”, “less sweet”, “notably less sweet”,“isosweet”, “weakly sweeter”, “sweeter”, “notably sweeter”,“significantly sweeter”.

The trilobatin samples were compared to either 0%, 0.5%, or 1% sucrosesolutions. The results are indicated in the table below.

Taste of trilobatin samples Sucrose Trilobatin [ppm] compared to sucrose[% wt/wt] 20 isosweet 0 20 notably less sweet 0.5 60 weakly sweeter 0 60less sweet 0.5 100 sweeter 0 100 isosweet 0.5 100 less sweet 1

The 20 ppm solution of trilobatin had no detectable difference from 0%sucrose and was notably less sweet than 0.5% sucrose. The 60 ppmtrilobatin sample was weakly sweeter than 0% sucrose and but was foundto be less sweet than 0.5% sucrose, which is barely detectably sweet.Accordingly, the 60 ppm trilobatin sample was isosweet to 0.25% sucrose,or below the sweetness detection threshold, by interpolation. The 100ppm trilobatin sample was sweeter than 0% sucrose and isosweet to 0.5%sucrose, which is weakly sweet.

1 b. Isointensity of 100 ppm Trilobatin

The sensory evaluation was conducted using a ranking method. Samples atambient temperature were randomly presented in 15 ml blind aliquots(unidentifiable by panelists). Panels consisted of 15 sweet sensitivesubjects and samples were presented in 2 replications over 1 session.After tasting each sample, the mouth was rinsed thoroughly with water atambient temperature prior to tasting the next sample. Panelists werepresented with 0.5%, 1%, 1.5% and 2% sucrose solutions in water and afifth sample of 100 ppm trilobatin in water. Subjects were asked to rankthe samples from low to high with respect to perceived sweet taste.R-indices were calculated for 100 ppm trilobatin versus either 0.5%, 1%,1.5% or 2% sucrose.

An R-index greater than the higher critical value means that thesweetness enhancer sample was significantly sweeter than the sucrosesample. An R-index from 50% to the upper critical value would mean thatthe sweetness enhancer sample had an equivalent sweetness to thecompared sucrose sample. An R-index below the lower critical value (seetable below) indicates that the sucrose sample was sweeter than thesweetness enhancer sample.

Critical sucrose solution sample sweetness values [% wt/wt] (trilobatin,100 ppm) R-index [%] p-value 0.5% Sucrose Isosweet 44% 35.39-64.61 P >0.05 1.0% Sucrose Less sweet 13% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05 1.5% Sucrose Lesssweet  0% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05 2.0% Sucrose Less sweet  0% 35.39-64.61 P< 0.05

An R index of 44%, which is within the critical value range(35.39-64.61%), means the 100 ppm trilobatin in water sample wasisosweet to 0.5% sucrose. An R index of 0-13%, which is below the lowercritical value, means the sample was less sweet than either 1%, 1.5% and2% sucrose. Thus, the 100 ppm trilobatin in water sample was perceivedto be isointense to a 0.5% sucrose solution.

1c. Isointensity of 200 ppm Trilobatin

The sensory evaluation was conducted using the method described inexample 1 b. The panels consisted of 7 sweet sensitive panelists.Panelists were presented with 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% sucrose solutions inwater and a fourth sample of 200 ppm trilobatin in water. Panelists wereasked to rank the samples from low to high with respect to perceivedsweet taste. 200 ppm trilobatin in water was determined to be isosweetto 1% sucrose.

The sweetness detection threshold for individuals within the averageconsumer group varies from below 0.4% to 0.7% sucrose or more. Allexamples were performed with sweet sensitive panelists able to detect atleast 0.5% sucrose or less. Extrapolating from examples 1 a, b, and c,the concentration detectable by the average consumer will therefore behigher, and the average concentration near the sweetness detectionthreshold of the average consumer will be about 100 to 200 ppm.

1d. Isointensity of 10, 15 and 20 ppm HDG

Determination of the Sweetness Detection Threshold of HDG.

All examples were performed with sweet sensitive panelists able todetect at least 0.5% of sucrose or less, unless stated otherwise. Theconcentration detectable by the average consumer will be higher. Theresults were obtained using 20 panelists in two replications.

The sucrose concentration that tastes isointense in sweetness to HDG wasdetermined using samples of 15 ppm and 20 ppm, each of which wasdirectly compared to a sucrose sample (sucrose solutions of 0.5%, 1%,1.5% and 2% concentration). Fifteen milliliters of each blinded samplewas presented, at room temperature, in random order to 20 sweetsensitive panelists. In two replications (over 1 session), panelistswere asked to rank the solutions, from least sweet to most sweet. Thedata was subjected to an R-index analysis. The results are indicated inthe tables below.

sample Significantly sucrose solution sweetness Critical valuesdifferent [% wt/wt] (HDG, 15 ppm) R-index [%] (p < 0.05) 0.5% Sucrosesweeter 85% 37.26-62.74 Yes 1.0% Sucrose less sweet 31% 37.26-62.74 Yes1.5% Sucrose less sweet 10% 37.26-62.74 Yes 2.0% Sucrose less sweet  1%37.26-62.74 Yes sample Significantly sucrose solution sweetness Criticalvalues different [% wt/wt] (HDG, 20 ppm) R-index [%] (p < 0.05) 0.5%Sucrose Sweeter 92% 37.26-62.74 Yes 1.0% Sucrose Isosweet 51%37.26-62.74 No 1.5% Sucrose Less sweet 33% 37.26-62.74 Yes 2.0% SucroseLess sweet  4% 37.26-62.74 Yes

15 ppm HDG was perceived to be significantly sweeter than a 0.5% sucrosesample (the calculated R-index value exceeds the critical values), butsignificantly less sweet than 1.0%, 1.5% and 2% sucrose samples (thecalculated R-index values less than the critical values).

20 ppm HDG was perceived to be isointense to the sweetness of the 1.0%sucrose sample, significantly sweeter than 0.5% sucrose (the calculatedR-index value was exceeds the critical value), and significantly lesssweet than 1.5% and 2% sucrose (the calculated R-index values less thanthe critical values).

Further three small panel testings were performed. HDG samples wereprepared in concentrations of 5 ppm, 10 ppm, 15 ppm, and 20 ppm inwater. All the samples were coded (presented blind) and given to thepanel in random order. The panel was also presented with sucrosesolutions for comparison. The panel was asked to taste each sample andrank the samples from the least sweet to most sweet. The results areindicated in the table below.

Sample concentration Isointensity to (HDG in water) Rank and tastesucrose  5 ppm 1 - not sweet   0% sucrose (water) 10 ppm 2 - veryslightly sweet  0.5% sucrose 15 ppm 3 - slightly sweet 0.75% sucrose 20ppm 4 - sweet   1% sucrose

The 5 ppm solution of HDG was found not to be sweet (below the sweetnessdetection threshold). The 10 ppm HDG was found to be very slightlysweet, isosweet to 0.5% sucrose. Thus the sweetness threshold of HDGdetected by sweet sensitive individuals (which are more sensitive thanthe average consumer) is at about 10 ppm. The 15 ppm and 20 ppm sampleswere identified as slightly sweet and sweet (isosweet to 0.75% sucroseand 1% sucrose, respectively).

Example 2a

Isointensity of 100 ppm Trilobatin in 7% Sucrose Solution

The sensory evaluation was conducted using a ranking method. Samples atambient temperature were randomly presented in 15 ml blind aliquots(unidentifiable by panelists). Panels consisted of 15 sweet sensitivesubjects and samples were presented in 2 replications over 1 session.After tasting each sample, the mouth was rinsed thoroughly with water atambient temperature prior to tasting the next sample. Panelists werepresented with 7%, 8%, 9%, 10% and 11% sucrose solutions in water and asixth sample of 100 ppm trilobatin in 7% sucrose. Subjects were asked torank the samples from low to high with respect to perceived sweet taste.R-indices were calculated for 100 ppm trilobatin in 7% sucrose versuseither 7%, 8%, 9%, 10% or 11% sucrose.

Sucrose sample sweetness critical solution (7% sucrose + 100 R- values[% wt/wt] ppm trilobatin) index [%] p-value 7% Sucrose Sweeter 79%35.39-64.61 P < 0.05 8% Sucrose Isosweet 38% 35.39-64.61 P > 0.05 9%Sucrose Less sweet 12% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05 10% Sucrose  Less sweet  1%35.39-64.61 P < 0.05 11% Sucrose  Less sweet  0% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05

An R index of 0-12%, which is below the lower critical value (35.39%),shows that the sample is less sweet than either 9%, 10% or 11% sucrose.An R-index of 79%, which is greater than the higher critical value(64.61%) shows that the 100 ppm trilobatin in 7% sucrose sample wassignificantly sweeter than 7% sucrose. An R-index of 38%, which iswithin the critical value range (35.39-64.61%), shows that the samplewas isosweet to 8% sucrose. Accordingly, 100 ppm trilobatin in 7%sucrose adds 1° Brix of sucrose sweetness intensity to enhance thesweetness so that 7% tastes equivalent to an 8% sucrose solution.

To further determine the sweetness enhancement, a direct comparison of100 ppm trilobatin in 7% sucrose with 7.5% sucrose solution was carriedout by 8 sweet sensitive panelists and all panelists indicated that the100 ppm trilobatin in 7% sucrose sample tasted significantly sweeterthan the 7.5% sucrose solution, which is the sucrose concentration thatthe 100 ppm trilobatin in 7% sucrose sample would be expected to tasteisosweet to, assuming a merely additive effect (compare example 1 b, thesweetness of 100 ppm trilobatin in water is equivalent to 0.5% sucrose).However, the 100 ppm trilobatin in 7% sucrose sample was found to beisosweet to 8% sucrose, clearly above a merely additive effect.

Example 2b

Isointensity of 20 ppm HDG in 7% Sugar Solution

The sensory evaluation was conducted essentially as described above fortrilobatin demonstrating the results as indicated in the table below.Panels consisted of 20 sweet sensitive subjects and samples werepresented in 2 replications over 1 session. Panelists were presentedwith 7%, 8%, 9% and 10% sucrose solutions in water and a fifth sample of20 ppm HDG in 7% sucrose in random order. Subjects were asked to rankthe samples from low to high with respect to perceived sweet taste.

Sucrose sample sweetness critical solution (7% sucrose + 20 values [%wt/wt] ppm HDG) R-index [%] p-value 7% Sucrose Sweeter 94.8% 37.11-62.89P < 0.05 8% Sucrose Isosweet 62.6% 37.11-62.89 P > 0.05 9% SucroseIsosweet 46.0% 37.11-62.89 P > 0.05 10% Sucrose  Less sweet 6.8%37.11-62.89 P < 0.05

An R index of 6.8%, which is below the lower critical value (37.11%),shows that the 20 ppm HDG in 7% sucrose sample was less sweet than 10%sucrose. An R-index of 94.8%, which is greater than the higher criticalvalue (62.89%) shows that the sample was significantly sweeter than 7%sucrose. An R-index of 46.0%, which is within the critical value range(37.11-62.89%), shows that the sample was isosweet to 9% sucrose. AnR-index of 62.6%, which falls within the critical value range(37.11-62.89%) but almost equal to the higher critical value(37.11-62.89%), shows that the sample was also isosweet to 8% sucrose.Thus, the sweetness of 20 ppm of HDG in 7% sugar is more towards 9%glucose, or at least 8.5% or higher.

Accordingly, 20 ppm HDG in 7% sucrose added about 1.5-2° Brix of sucrosesweetness intensity to enhance the sweetness so that 7% tastedequivalent to an 8.5-9% sucrose solution.

Example 3

Ranking Test of 100 ppm Trilobatin+60 ppm Swingle Extract in 7% Sucrose,Determining its Sucrose Isointensity

A 100 ppm trilobatin+60 ppm swingle extract in 7% sucrose sample wasevaluated for isointensity to 7-11% sucrose solutions (compare table)using the method described in example 2. The results are indicated inthe table below.

Sample sweetness Sucrose (100 ppm trilobatin + Critical solution 60 ppmswingle in R-index values [% wt/wt] 7% sucrose) [%] [%] p-value 7%Sweeter 97% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05 8% Sweeter 79% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05 9%Isosweet 52% 35.39-64.61 P > 0.05 10%  Less sweet 25% 35.39-64.61 P <0.05 11%  less sweet  4% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05

An R-index from 79-97%, which is greater than the higher critical value(64.61%), shows that the 100 ppm trilobatin+60 ppm swingle in 7% sucrosesample was significantly sweeter than 7% and 8% sucrose. An R-index of52%, which is between the critical value limits (35.39-64.61%), showsthat the sample was isosweet to 9% sucrose. An R-index of 4-25%, whichis below the lower critical value (35.39%), shows that the sample wassignificantly less sweet than 10% and 11% sucrose.

As a control, 100 ppm trilobatin in water was tested (see example 1 b)and found to have a sweetness isointensity to 0.5% sucrose.

Further, 60 ppm swingle in water was tested as described in example 1 bfor trilobatin and was found to have a sweetness isointensity to above0.5% but below 1% sucrose (0.75% by interpolation as shown in example6).

Accordingly, the 100 ppm trilobatin in 7% sucrose sample (isotense tobelow 0.5% sucrose) and the 60 ppm swingle extract sample (isosweet tobelow 1% sucrose, interpolated to 0.75% sucrose), would be expected tobe isosweet to below 8.25% sucrose assuming an additive effect.

However, the determined isointensity was 9% sucrose, which is clearlyabove a merely additive effect.

Example 4

Ranking Test of 100 ppm Trilobatin+60 ppm Swingle Extract+2 ppm NHDC in7% Sucrose, Determining its Sucrose Isointensity

A sample of 100 ppm trilobatin+60 ppm swingle extract+2 ppm NHDC in 7%sucrose was evaluated for sweetness isointensity to 7-11% sucrosesolutions (compare table) using the ranking method described in example2. The results are indicated in the table below.

Sucrose Critical solution Sample values [% wt/wt] sweetness R-index [%]p-value 7% Sweeter 98% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05 8% Sweeter 96% 35.39-64.61 P< 0.05 9% Sweeter 81% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05 10%  Isosweet 56% 35.39-64.61P > 0.05 11%  Less sweet 28% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05

An R-index from 81-98%, which is greater than the upper critical value(64.61%), shows that the 7% sucrose+100 ppm trilobatin+2 ppm NHDC+60 ppmswingle sample was significantly sweeter than 7%, 8%, and 9% sucrose. AnR-index of 56%, which is within the critical value limits(35.39-64.61%), means the sample was isosweet to 10% sucrose. An R indexof 28%, which is below the lower critical value (35.39%), means thesample was less sweet than 11% sucrose.

2 ppm NHDC in water had a sweetness isointense to 0.5% sucrose (seeexample 7). The 100 ppm trilobatin in water had a sweetness isointenseto 0.5% sucrose. The 60 ppm swingle in water had an isointensity ofabove 0.5% sucrose but below 1% sucrose (0.75% by interpolation as shownin example 5).

Accordingly, the 7% sucrose+2 ppm NHDC (isosweet to 0.5% sucrose)+100ppm trilobatin (isotense to 0.5% sucrose)+60 ppm swingle extract(isosweet to below 1% sucrose, interpolated to 0.75% sucrose) samplewould be expected to be isosweet to below 9% sucrose, or below 8.75%sucrose by interpolation, assuming an additive effect.

However, the determined sweetness isointensity was equivalent to 10%sucrose, which is clearly above a merely additive effect.

Example 5

Sucrose Isointensity of 100 ppm Trilobatin+Combination of Two OptionalSweetness Enhancers in a 7% Sucrose Cola Beverage, Determining itsSucrose Isointensity

The sensory evaluation was conducted by direct comparison. Samples werepresented at ambient temperature in 15 ml blind aliquots. Panelsconsisted of 7 sweet sensitive panelists. After tasting each sample, themouth was rinsed thoroughly with water at ambient temperature prior totasting the next sample. Panelists were presented with a 100 ppmtrilobatin+optional enhancers sample in a 7% sucrose cola beverage and areference of a 10% sucrose cola beverage. Panelists were asked to tastethe reference and then the sample to determine the relative sweetness.

5a—Combination with 60 ppm Swingle Extract+2 ppm NHDC

The tested sample contained 100 ppm trilobatin+60 ppm Swingle extract+2ppm NHDC in a 7% sucrose cola beverage. The results are indicated in thetable below

Cola Reference Sample sweetness (10% sucrose) (7% sucrose) 5/7 isosweet1/7 Sweeter 1/7 less sweet

Among the 7 panelists, five chose both the sample and reference asequally sweet and one each chose either sample or reference as sweeter.

5b—Combination with 30 ppm Rebaudioside A+2 ppm NHDC

The example was conducted as described in example 5a above, except thatrebaudioside A was used instead of swingle extract.

Cola Reference Sample sweetness (10% sucrose) (7% sucrose) 5/7 isosweet2/7 less sweet

Among the 7 panelists, five chose both the sample and reference asequally sweet and 2 chose the reference as sweeter.

Examples 5 a and b demonstrate that not only is trilobatin able toenhance sweetness considerably on its own, but it can also be combinedwith other sweetness enhancers to further enhance sweetness (here shownfor swingle extract/rebaudioside A and NHDC). Notably, when sweetnessenhancers are combined, the effect may be similar or even less, forexample when compounds have a similar working mechanism no furtherimprovement may be reached or the combined compounds may even negativelyinfluence each other or compounds they are interacting with. This is notthe case for trilobatin when combined with swingle extract orrebaudiosides or NHDC.

Example 6—Sweetness of Swingle Extract in Water

Forced Choice Test of 60 ppm Swingle Extract in Water Versus 0%, 0.5%and 1% Sucrose

The test samples were evaluated by a sensory panel of 10 sweet sensitivepanelists. Samples were presented in 3 replicates to each panelist togive n=30 evaluations for each panel. The sensory evaluation wasconducted using a forced choice method. Samples were presented blind,unidentifiable by panelists. In each replicate, the 60 ppm swingleextract in water sample was compared by panelists to 0% sucrose, and/or0.5% sucrose, and/or 1% sucrose. Panelists were instructed that they hadto choose one of the samples as sweeter. The data was analyzed usingbeta-binomial analysis. Further, panelists were asked to rate eachpresented sample for sweetness using the generalized labeled magnitudescale (0=no sweetness; 10=strongest imaginable sensation of any kind).The rating data was compared using the paired t-test.

Results of the Forced Choice Test:

Number panelists Number panelists choosing 60 ppm choosing 0% orSignificance Test Sucrose swingle in water 1% sucrose level run [%wt/wt] as sweeter as sweeter (forced choice) 1 0 30/30 0/30 p < 0.001 20.5 28/30 2/30 p < 0.001 3 1  6/30 24/30  p < 0.001

Results of the Rating Test:

Test 60 ppm swingle 0% 1% Significance run in water sucrose sucroselevel 1 0.63 ± 0.09 0.1 ± 0.04 p < 0.001 3 0.58 ± 0.06 0.72 ± 0.06 p <0.001

1—Compared to 0% sucrose/water, the 60 ppm swingle in water sample wasperceived as sweeter by all panelists (30 of 30 panelists, with astatistical significance level for the forced choice of p<0.001). Thelow sweetness intensity rating of 0.63 reflects the very weakperceivable sweetness (compare the 0% sucrose with a rating of 0.1. Thehighest imaginable sweetness rates as 10).

2—Compared to 0.5% sucrose, the 60 ppm swingle sample in water wasperceived as sweeter by a vast majority of the panelists (28 of 30panelists, with a statistical significance level for the forced choiceof p<0.001).

3—Compared to the weakly sweet 1% sucrose, the 60 ppm swingle extract inwater sample was close to the threshold concentration for its sweetperception and significantly less sweet—the large majority of panelists(24 of 30) selected the weakly sweet 1% sucrose solution as beingsweeter than the 60 ppm swingle extract solution with a statisticalsignificance level for the forced choice of p<0.001. The low sweetnessintensity rating of 0.58 for swingle extract in water versus 0.72 for 1%sucrose reflects the very weak perceivable sweetness of 60 ppm swinglewhich was significantly less than the sweetness of 1% sucrose. Byinterpolation, the sweetness of 60 ppm swingle extract was equivalent toabout 0.75% sucrose.

Example 7—Sweetness of NHDC in Water

Ranking Test of 2 ppm NHDC in Water, Determining its SucroseIsointensity

A 2 ppm NHDC in water sample was evaluated for its isointensity to 0.5and 1% sucrose solutions using the ranking method described in example3b. The results are indicated in the table below.

sucrose Critical solutions NHDC sample R-index values [% wt/wt]sweetness [%] [%] p-value 0.5% isosweet 41% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05  1%less sweet  5% 35.39-64.61 P < 0.05

An R-index 41%, which is not significantly above the critical value(35.39%), shows that the 2 ppm NHDC sample was isosweet to 0.5% sucrose.An R-index of 5%, which is below the critical value (35.39%), shows thatthe 2 ppm NHDC sample was significantly less sweet than 1% sucrose.

While the sweet enhancing compositions, sweetened consumables andrelated methods have been described above in connection with certainillustrative embodiments, it is to be understood that other similarembodiments may be used or modifications and additions may be made tothe described embodiments for performing the same function. Further, allembodiments disclosed are not necessarily in the alternative, as variousembodiments may be combined to provide the desired characteristics.Variations can be made by one having ordinary skill in the art withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Therefore, thesweetness enhancing compositions, sweetened consumables and relatedmethods should not be limited to any single embodiment, but ratherconstrued in breadth and scope in accordance with the recitation of theattached claims.

Example 8

Sweetness Detection Threshold in Yoghurt

Trilobatin was tested by 6 sweet sensitive panelists in plain nonfatyoghurt. Yoghurt samples were 500 ppm trilobatin, 1% sucrose, and 2%sucrose. Panelists compared the 500 ppm trilobatin sample to eachsucrose sample and compared the sweetness, the results are indicated inthe table below.

Sucrose sample Sweetness of 500 ppm trilobatin sample 1% sucroseslightly less sweet/similarly sweet 2% sucrose less sweet

The sweetness detection threshold in yoghurt is higher than in water,due to the presence of acids, proteins and the viscosity. 500 ppmtrilobatin in yoghurt is a concentration still near the sweetnessdetection threshold in yoghurt. A concentration of 550 ppm, 600 ppm, 650ppm, 700 ppm or 750 ppm may still be a concentration near the sweetnessdetection threshold.

Example 9

Sweetness Enhancement in Yoghurt

Trilobatin was tested by 6 sweet sensitive panelists in plain nonfatyoghurt. Samples of 62.5 ppm, 125 ppm, and 500 ppm trilobatin in yoghurtsweetened with 5% sucrose were compared by panelists to a 5% sucrosesweetened yoghurt and a 7% sucrose sweetened yoghurt sample; the resultsare indicated in the table below.

Trilobatin sample sweetness trilobatin sweetness trilobatin in 5%sucrose compared to 5% compared to 7% [ppm] sucrose sample sucrosesample 62.5 + sweeter less sweet 125 ++ sweeter less sweet 500 ppm ++++much sweeter, similarly sweet, slight sour off-note slight sour off-note

The results show a sweetness enhancement effect equivalent to an added1% sucrose (5% sucrose tastes like 7%) when used in a concentration of500 ppm (own sweetness equivalent to 1% sucrose, as shown in example 8).

Example 10

Sweetness Detection Threshold in Milk

Trilobatin was tested by 6 panelists in whole milk.

Milk samples were 62.5 ppm, 125 ppm, 250 ppm, 500 ppm trilobatin; 1%sucrose, and 2% sucrose. Panelists compared the trilobatin samples toeach sucrose sample and compared the sweetness, the results areindicated in the table below.

Trilobatin samples Trilobatin sample sweetness [ppm] compared to sucrose62.5 below 1% sucrose (6/6) 125 below 1% sucrose (6/6) 250 below 1%sucrose (6/6) 500 similar to 1% sucrose (3/6) below 1% sucrose (3/6)

The sweetness detection threshold in milk is higher than in water. Allpanelists (6/6) found 62.5 ppm trilobatin, 125 ppm and 250 ppmtrilobatin to have a sweetness below that of 1% sucrose in milk. For 500ppm trilobatin, half of the panelists (3/6) found the sweetness to beisosweet to 1% sucrose, the other half found the sweetness to be belowthat of 1% sucrose.

500 ppm trilobatin in milk is a concentration below or near thesweetness detection threshold in milk. A concentration of 550 ppm, 600ppm, 650 ppm, 700 ppm or 750 ppm may still be a concentration near thesweetness detection threshold.

Example 11

Sweetness Enhancement in Cereals

Trilobatin was tested by 4 sweet sensitive panelists in cereal samples(cereals from Kix, General Mills; USA). The cereal is a comparativelylow sugar product and contains 3 g sucrose per 30 g cereal. Paneliststested the samples in whole milk.

To the cereal samples, sucrose was topically added by spraying thecorresponding amount of a 10% sucrose solution in water to give 1%. Thesamples were baked at 250° C. for about 15 minutes in a convection ovento dry/remove the water. Similarly, trilobatin was applied to cerealsamples as a 0.1% solution in 50/50 w/w ethanol/water to give varioustrilobatin concentrations (100 ppm, 200 ppm, 400 ppm).

The following cereal samples were compared:

Trilobatin cereal sample Sweetness trilobatin sample 100 ppm less sweetthan 1% sucrose 200 ppm sweeter than 1% sucrose 400 ppm much sweeterthan 1% sucrose, too sweet

200 ppm trilobatin produced a pleasant taste sweeter than 1% sucrose,400 ppm was much sweeter and considered too sweet. This shows that thesweetness of sweetened cereals can be enhanced by addition oftrilobatin.

Example 12

Sweetness Enhancement by 10 ppm HDG

The degree of sweetness enhancement of HDG was tested by determining theisointensity of the HDG-enhanced samples in comparison to sucrosesamples. The samples contained 10 ppm HDG in 7% sucrose (HDG-10), andvarious sucrose solutions of different concentration in water (7%, 8%,9%, and 10%).

15 ml of each sample was presented at room temperature and in randomorder to 20 sweet sensitive panelists. In two replications over 1session, panelists were asked to compare and rank the samples from leastsweet to most sweet. The results were subjected to an R-index analysisand are presented in the table below. The critical value indicates therange wherein the difference of two samples is non-significant. AnR-index outside of that range indicates significantly different samples.

Critical Significantly HDG-ppm vs. R-index Value different sweetnesssucrose [%] [%] [%] (p < 0.05) HDG sample HDG-10/ 75.2 37.1 to 62.9 Yessweeter 7% vs. 7% HDG-10/ 37.5 37.1 to 62.9 No isosweet 7% vs. 8%HDG-10/ 10.7 37.1 to 62.9 Yes less 7% vs. 9% HDG-10/ 0.6 37.1 to 62.9Yes less 7% vs. 10%

The HDG sample (10 ppm HDG in 7% sucrose) was perceived to besignificantly sweeter than a 7% sucrose solution (the calculated R-indexvalue exceeding than the higher critical value (62.9%) at p>0.05),isosweet to the 8% sucrose sample, and significantly less sweet than the9% and 10% sucrose samples (the calculated R-index values below thelower critical value (37.1) at p>0.05). An R-index of 37.5, which iswithin the critical value range (37.1-62.9%), shows that the sample wasisosweet to 8% sucrose. Accordingly, 10 ppm HDG in 7% sucrose adds about1° Brix of sucrose sweetness intensity to enhance the sweetness so that7% tastes equivalent to an 8% sucrose solution.

Accordingly, since the HDG sample in a concentration of 10 ppm was foundto be isosweet to 0.5% sucrose (compare example 1d), it would beexpected to be isosweet to 7.5% assuming a merely additive effect.However, the HDG in 7% sucrose sample was found to be isosweet to 8%sucrose, clearly above a merely additive effect.

Example 13

Sweetness of Trilobatin (750 ppm) in Yogurt

The sucrose concentration isointense to 750 ppm trilobatin in a plainyogurt base was determined as follows.

Samples contained a plain yogurt base with 750 ppm trilobatin, or thesame plain yogurt base with sucrose in various concentrations (0%, 0.5%,1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% sucrose).

30 ml of each yogurt sample was served cold, in random order, to 21sweet sensitive panelists. In two replications over 1 session, panelistswere asked to rank the samples from least sweet to most sweet. The datawas subjected to an R-index analysis. The critical value range givenindicates the non-significant range, an R-index outside of this range issignificantly different as indicated (p<0.05).

yogurt samples Critical Significantly 750 ppm TL vs. R-index Valuedifferent sweetness % sucrose [%] [%] (p < 0.05) TL sample TL vs. 0%82.6 37.4 to 62.6 Yes sweeter TL vs. 0.5% 58.5 37.4 to 62.6 No isosweetTL vs. 1% 14.7 37.4 to 62.6 Yes less TL vs. 1.5% 4.4 37.4 to 62.6 Yesless TL vs. 2% 3.3 37.4 to 62.6 Yes less

Panelists perceived 750 ppm trilobatin in plain yogurt as significantlysweeter than the plain yogurt base alone (the calculated R-index valuewas greater than the higher critical value (62.6%), but significantlyless sweet than 1.0%, 1.5% and 2% sucrose in plain yogurt (thecalculated R-index values are below the lower critical values (37.4%) atp>0.05).

In plain yogurt, the sweetness intensity of 750 ppm trilobatin wasperceived to be isointense to 0.5% sucrose.

Example 14

Sweetness of HDG in a Cola Beverage

20 ppm of HDG in a cola beverage sweetened with 7% sucrose was comparedto control samples (cola without HDG and sweetened with 7 or 9% sucrose)by 9 panelists.

Panelists were instructed to taste and compare the samples in theirsweetness intensity and profile.

The HDG in 7% cola sample was found to be significantly sweeter than the7% sucrose sample by all panelists, but not as sweet as the 9% sucrosecontrol. It was described to have a non-lingering taste profile similarto the sucrose controls in sweetness onset and duration.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A sweetened consumable comprising a) atleast 0.0001% (w/w) of at least one sweetener, including natural andartificial sweeteners, wherein said sweetener includes sucrose,fructose, glucose, high fructose corn syrup, corn syrup, xylose,arabinose, rhamnose, erythritol, xylitol, mannitol, sorbitol, inositol,acesulfame potassium, aspartame, neotame, sucralose, saccharine, orcombinations thereof, wherein said at least one sweetener or sweetenercombination is present in a concentration above the sweetness detectionthreshold in a concentration isosweet from 2% to 15% sucrose, and b)hesperitin dihydrochalcone 4″-beta-D-glucoside (HDG) in a concentrationnear its sweetness detection threshold in said consumable.
 2. Thesweetened consumable according to claim 1 wherein the HDG concentrationis from 0.3 to 20 ppm.
 3. The sweetened consumable according to claim 1wherein the consumable is selected from dairy product, dairy-derivedproduct and dairy-alternative product and wherein the HDG concentrationis from 1 to 75 ppm.
 4. The sweetened consumable according to claim 1wherein the consumable has a pH below 6.5 and the HDG concentration isfrom 0.6 to 30 ppm.
 5. The sweetened consumable according to claim 1wherein the consumable has a pH below 5 and the HDG concentration isfrom 0.6 to 40 ppm.
 6. The sweetened consumable according to claim 1,wherein the consumable is a water-based consumable selected from thegroup consisting of water, aqueous beverage, enhanced/slightly sweetenedwater drink, mineral water, carbonated beverage, non-carbonatedbeverage, carbonated water, still water, soft drink, non-alcoholicdrink, alcoholic drink, beer, wine, liquor, fruit drink, juice, fruitjuice, vegetable juice, broth drink, coffee, tea, black tea, green tea,oolong tea, herbal tea, cocoa (water-based), tea-based drink,coffee-based drinks, cocoa-based drink, syrup, frozen fruit, frozenfruit juice, water-based ice, fruit ice, sorbet, dressing, saladdressing, sauce, soup, beverage botanical materials (whole or ground),and instant powder for reconstitution (coffee beans, ground coffee,instant coffee, cocoa beans, cocoa powder, instant cocoa, tea leaves,instant tea powder).
 7. The sweetened consumable according to claim 1,wherein the consumable is a solid dry consumable selected from the groupconsisting of cereals, baked food products, biscuits, bread, breakfastcereal, cereal bar, energy bars/nutritional bars, granola, cakes,cookies, crackers, donuts, muffins, pastries, confectioneries,chocolate, fondant, hard candy, marshmallow, pressed tablets, snackfoods, botanical materials (whole or ground), and instant powders forreconstitution.
 8. The sweetened consumable according to claim 1,wherein the consumable is a dairy product, dairy-derived product ordairy-alternative product, selected from the group consisting of milk,fluid milk, cultured milk product, cultured and noncultured dairy-baseddrink, cultured milk product cultured with lactobacillus, yoghurt,yoghurt-based beverage, smoothy, lassi, milk shake, acidified milk,acidified milk beverage, butter milk, kefir, milk-based beverages,milk/juice blend, fermented milk beverage, icecream, dessert, sourcream, dip, salad dressing, cottage cheese, frozen yoghurt, soy milk,rice milk, soy drink, and rice milk drink.
 9. The sweetened consumableaccording to claim 1 further comprising at least one of naringindihydrochalcone, mogroside V, swingle extract, rubusoside, rubusextract, rebaudioside A, stevioside and neohesperidin dihydrochalcone,or combinations thereof.
 10. The sweetened consumable according to claim9 wherein naringin dihydrochalcone is present in a concentration of from2 to 60 ppm.
 11. The sweetened consumable according to claim 9 whereinmogroside V is present in a concentration of from 0.4 to 12.5 ppm. 12.The sweetened consumable according to claim 9 wherein swingle extract ispresent in a concentration of from 2 to 60 ppm.
 13. The sweetenedconsumable according to claim 9 wherein rubusoside is present in aconcentration of from 1.4 to 56 ppm.
 14. The sweetened consumableaccording to claim 9 wherein rubus extract is present in a concentrationof from 2 to 80 ppm.
 15. The sweetened consumable according to claim 9wherein rebaudioside A is present in a concentration of from 1 to 30ppm.
 16. The sweetened consumable according to claim 9 whereinstevioside is present in a concentration of from 2 to 60 ppm.
 17. Thesweetened consumable according to claim 9 wherein neohesperidindihydrochalcone is present in a concentration of from 1 to 5 ppm. 18.The sweetened consumable according to claim 9 which is a beverage.
 19. Asweetness enhancer composition for enhancing the sweetness of aconsumable comprising a sweetness enhancer consisting of hesperitindihydrochalcone 4″-beta-D-glucoside (HDG) in a concentration near itssweetness detection threshold in a consumable; and at least oneadditional compound selected from the group consisting of naringindihydrochalcone, mogroside V, swingle extract, rubusoside, rubusextract, rebaudioside A, stevioside and neohesperidin dihydrochalcone,or combinations thereof.